Living on Phuket:
Daily life
on the island

Above Left: Cherng Talay city gate

Living on Phuket is a delight!   And this is the place to learn more about what it is like to live on the island.

The Cost of Living is a concern for all but the most well fixed of people.  Most data you will find is related to Thailand in general - and you can figure that Phuket will be roughly 5% more expensive than for comparable goods in Bangkok.  Sometimes a little more, sometimes a little less - it depends on where you shop.

Everyone dreams of a beautiful house on the sea.  Phuket offers a great variety of Housing, from very nice smallish bungalows near the beach to row houses in sub-divisions, to multi-million dollar villas with magnificent views.  Options abound the for the middle-of-the-roader. 

Shopping alternatives abound and are growing exponentially here.  The quality of life has improved 100% in the last few years with the opening of Central Festival, JungCeylon and other shopping and entertainment centers.  You can now find what is needed without guessing which of five places might have what you need.

  It depends on what you call Entertainment, some people love to go to the movies and eat popcorn.  A new multiplex is now open at Jungceylon in Patong.  But, if you prefer a more active lifestyle - discos abound, the bars are uncountable - some even specializing in different nationalities.  Go carts, bowling, boating, beachcombing, birdwatching, karaoke joints - so many options: so little time!

Getting around Phuket is easy - but your Transportation choices will depend on whether you live here or are just visiting.  Phuket's overpriced tuk tuks and "limos" are, ever so slowly, being displaced by metered taxis.  Even small buses have been introduced in Phuket Town.  Buying a vehicle on Phuket will probably be more expensive than you think - but ongoing maintenance may be much cheaper.  Check the Cost of Living pages for more information about owning an operating  your own vehicle here.

Clubs and Organizations help us find our feet and belong in a new community.  Phuket has many opportunities for you to get involved.

For older folks - or just for the practical-minded: Medical Care is a consideration.  You'll find that Phuket has surprisingly good facilities and quite a few great doctors and dentists.

If you have Special Interests - religion - conservation, animal care, or other concerns - there are many ways to stay active with them.